Our client purchased a barn that had been poorly converted about 30 years ago. It was at this time divided with a separate annexe, resulting in a disjointed layout and the living accommodation split over two levels. The site benefited from wonderful sea views but the poor conversion meant the internal spaces did not relate well or maximise the potential of the site.

Our brief was to not only bring back and enhance the quality of the existing building but to rationalise the internal layout whilst maximising the views by linking the house with the surrounding landscape.The final scheme provides sleeping accommodation on the lower level linked with the gardens and a large open plan living space at first floor opening on to an integrated south facing balcony. By cleverly rationalising the structure we have been able to increase the outlook towards the panoramic sea views from the first floor accommodation.

The scheme has been Highly Commended at the 2014 LABC Building Excellence Awards for Best Extension or Alteration to an Existing Home.Photo credit to Richard Downer Photography